Perhaps the best-known prophecy of Christmas is Isaiah 7:14, “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.” Ultimately, this Son was Jesus Christ Who was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit in the womb of a virgin named Mary who remained a virgin until He was born (Mat.1:23-25; Luke 1:34-35).

There was, however, in the historical context of Isaiah 7 another “son” whose conception and birth was a sign from God to Ahaz, king of Judah, and his people. The kings of Syria and Israel were plotting war against Ahaz and the southern kingdom of Judah. The people of Judah including their king were fearful, but the LORD promised that the plans of their northern enemies would not come to pass. Like us, God’s people in that day were called upon to trust God’s promises in a time of crisis. God even gave them a sign to assure them He was keeping His promise (Isaiah 7:14). The conception and birth of Isaiah’s son (Isa.8:3-4) was meant to assure Ahaz and his people that God was with them (Immanuel), and would keep His promise. In times of crisis and trial we too have the promises of God on which to stand!